Proton launches the Suprima S

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The Proton Suprima S – also known as the P3­22A broke cover earlier today at the Matrade Exhibition and Convention Centre and no.. It isn’t called the Preve Hatchback. Although it certainly looks like it. With rumours of the hatchback variant Preve literally exploding the social media networks immediately after the launch of the Preve, the Suprima is Malaysia’s most anticipated  local car launch this year.

It begs the question – why the name Suprima S ? Derived from the word “supreme”, with the ‘S’ noted as ‘Superiority in engineering’, it is currently Proton’s seventh model on sale – adding to the current range of cars carried by the local car manufacturer.

Photos and Coverage by: Johnson Lam

For those comparing between the Preve, the performance of the Suprima S seems to be bogged down by the weight – which almost 50kgs heavier than its sedan brother. At the same time, the design has sacrificed not only the performance, but also the practicality in terms of boot space.

The exterior resembles its sedan brother – however from the A-pillar onwards, that is where the looks end because it has inculcated the hatchback design. ‘Shooting-brake’ like maybe? Perhaps not but the hatchback design has enabled the Suprima to lose almost 200 litres of luggage space from the Preve to cater for the ‘sportier’ design. Other differences are the rear lights which are designed ‘angular’ like – deviating the similarities from the Preve.

Nevertheless – the Suprima S features Proton’s Wing-inspired grille, tagged with a honeycomb design to distinguish its frontal fascia from the Preve. Both variants features projector headlights and LEDs – however DRL (Daytime Running Light) is only available in the Premium spec.

The Suprima S is powered by Proton’s signature 1.6-litre turbocharged CamPro CFE Engine – tagged with a 7-Speed ProTronic CVT gearbox which according to Proton, was designed to match the sporty characteristics. The low-pressure turbo enables the 1.6-litre engine to produce 138bhp and 205NM, taking the car from Zerotohundred in 9.9 seconds and a top-speed of 190km.h. A relatively decent performance for the average everyday user.

To redeem its tall price-tag – Proton has offered various creature comforts and technology which should appeal to many potential customers. Proton’s android-based infotainment system comes as standard for both the Executive and Premium variant, featuring a 7″ LCD screen with DVD and GPS navigation. At the same time, this system carries a Bluetooth/USB/iPod connectivity which is a useful feature especially for the younger generation.

The party-piece of the Suprima S is the wifi connectivity – enabling internet on-the-go tethering from your mobile phone or portable hotspot. To promote safety, this system can only be used when the handbrake is engaged.

The car will be on sale today onwards – and those interested can make a booking immediately. Proton offers 5 signature colours for the Suprima S – Atlantic Blue, Fire Red, Genetic Silver, Tranquility Black and Solid White. Aiming at a more performance-biased market, Proton intends to export this car for international based clients – with Thailand and Indonesia launching this variant by years-end.

Prices start from RM76,338 for the Executive model and RM 79,638 for the Premium model.

 http://www.zerotohundred.com/2013/auto-features/proton-launches-the-suprima-s-no-its-not-called-the-preve-hatchback-yours-for-rm77k-onwards/